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M5 tunnel regulars 'risk chronic health problems'

The study found that at times pollution levels were 1000 times higher than in the city.

ABC

A new study has found that regular users of Sydney's M5 East tunnel are risking chronic health problems because of unsafe levels of pollution.

Researchers from Macquarie University and Queensland University of Technology travelled through the tunnel more than 300 times over two years testing the exposure drivers have to harmful ultrafine particles.

The study found that, on occasion, pollution in the tunnel was more than 1000 times more concentrated than in the city.

Lead researcher of the study from Queensland University Lidia Morawska says the findings are alarming.

"If healthy people travel in these conditions regularly they are subjected to a more chronic exposure," she said.

"On a longer term it can lead to chronic respiratory problems or cardiovascular problems."

The opposition health spokeswoman Jillian Skinner says the state government should act in the face of overwhelming evidence.

"How many times does the government need to be told of the serious health risks of the M5 East," she said.

"I find it absolutely extraordinary that this government has done nothing serious to address this problem despite years and years of complaints."